Parks, trails and recreation are essential elements to the community’s quality of life. A well-planned parks and recreation program enriches people’s lives and helps to attract new residents and businesses by positively impacting community character, real estate values and land development patterns. Trails provide connections to parks, schools, employment areas, and retail centers for recreational and non-motorized use. A system of parks and greenways also provides many environmental benefits that are essential to the health of the community.